Introducing The Romain Gauthier Logical One: Complete With A Totally New Take On The Fusée And Chain

Romain Gauthier's new Logical One is one serious watch. A very modern interpretation of the ultra-traditional chain and fusée transmission system lies at the center of the Logical One, but that is far from the only interesting thing about this watch. Here's our first look at this impressive piece of horology.

The Romain Gauthier Logical One in Platinum

You may remember we explained the intricacies of the fusée and chain a few weeks ago with the Breguet Tradition Fusée Tourbillon, but here's a quick refresher. Essentially a chain connected to a cone places torque on the barrel to provide constant force as the power reserve runs down. Originally conceived for clocks, the fusée is terribly difficult to fit into a wristwatch even it its most basic form.

Ruby Chain

But Romain Gauthier didn't go with any ordinary fusée here. First off, the chain's links are made of tiny synthetic rubies instead of metal. Yes, a ruby chain. This improves the strength of each link as well as keeping friction to a minimum. To take things another step, the fusée itself (that cone) has been replaced by a snail-shaped cam. Because the chain now always transmits power in a straight line (no angle as a result of the cone's multiple tiers), the force is even more constant than usual.

Winding Pusher

Again looking at angles and transmission of force, Romain Gauthier has done away with the crown's winding function on the Logical One. Instead, there is a pusher set into the left caseband which you simple push to wind the watch. In addition to ergonomic benefits, this pusher means direct force transmission to the barrel and the elimination of the damage-prone winding stem from the equation. The power reserve for the Logical One is a full three days.

The Rose Gold Logical One

A Look At The Movement Through The Sapphire Caseback

To cap off the technological innovations is a sapphire lining inside the mainspring barrel. Typically the metal mainspring begins to touch the sides of the metal barrel as it unwinds, only protected by the lubricant inside the barrel. This sapphire coating acts as a permanent lubricant of sorts, keeping both friction and wear low.

You can see most of the movement components on teh dial-side of the Logical One, but the rest of the in-house movement can be seen through the sapphire caseback on the 43mm case. The Logical One is available in both rose gold and platinum and you can find more information on Romain Gauthier's website.

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Friday March 3, 2012

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